From humble beginnings, the St. Matthew's Fishing Rodeo has grown into something that's so much more than a fishing rodeo.

Now called the Jeff Fish Fest and Rodeo, the two-weekend event begins Friday night with a Kick-Off Party and Fish Like a Pro Seminar. Admission is $15.

Participants will be treated to crawfish, fixings, jambalaya and ice-cold beverages while they get fishing tips from Capts. Jack Payne, John Falterman and C.T. Williams.

Outside, the U.S. Coast Guard will be providing free boat safety inspections, and will present boaters that complete the checklist with windshield stickers showing they've got all their safety gear.

Early registrants for the rodeo may also pick up their ditty bags that night.

The actual rodeo kicks off a week later, on May 16, and extends through May 17, when there will be a big party on St. Matthew's grounds from 2-7 p.m.

All rodeo fish will be on display, and there will also be a casting pond, kids' jump zone, rock wall, mullet toss, 1,400-gallon live-fish tank, interactive learning booths, a live DJ, auctions and drawings, and, of course, great food and beverages.